62nd Annual Layman's Pre-Christmas services

The 62nd Annual Carthage Layman's Pre-Christmas services are set for next week, with the first half-hour service slated for 7 p.m. Monday and the other four scheduled for 7 a.m., Tuesday-Friday.

Staff Reports

The 62nd Annual Carthage Layman's Pre-Christmas services are set for next week, with the first half-hour service slated for 7 p.m. Monday and the other four scheduled for 7 a.m., Tuesday-Friday.

All will be held at the Grace Episcopal Church, 820 Howard St., this year. The theme for the series is “A Gift from God.”

A committee of residents plans each year's series of services, with a layman, not a preacher, giving the message at each service.

The series is held to remind Carthage residents of the true reason for the Christmas holiday — the birth of Christ, according to the committee.“Come worship each day as the community comes together to celebrate the birth of our savior,” the committee said. “The services are limited to 30 minutes. Wear your work clothes and start each day focusing on Jesus.”

Each service features a different speaker, leader and special musician or musicians.Monday's services will be led by Sherry Rimer, with Bill Lasley speaking and Debbie Snodgrass providing music.

On Tuesday, John Gremling will lead, George Earl will speak and Kim Snodgrass will provide music.On Wednesday, Hal Andrews will lead, Rick Maynard will speak and the Nazarene Sextet will sing.On Thursday, Bud Rogers will lead, Donna Anderson will speak and Ultra Sound will sing.On Friday, Donna Linn will lead, Judy Swarens will speak and Spencer Orr will provide music.Doughnuts and beverages will be provided and all are invited.